Hawaii Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness Info

Oahu Civil Defense Agency
HURRICANE SHELTERS ON OAHU

Shelters will be opened selectively depending on the severity of the incident. Listen to radio and television for shelter designations and opening schedule.

CENTRAL OAHU (MILILANI, WAHIAWA and VICINITY)

Mililani High
Mililani Mauka Elementary
Mililani Middle

Mililani-Uka Elementary

Helemano Elementary
Iliahi Elementary

Kaala Elementary
Kipapa Elementary

Leilehua High
Wahiawa Elementary

Wahiawa Middle

NORTH SHORE (KAENA PT. - KAHUKU)

Kahuku High and Intermediate

Waialua High and Intermediate

LEEWARD COAST (MAKUA - WAIPAHU and VICINITY)

August Ahrens Elementary
Campbell High
Ewa Elementary

Honowai Elementary

Ilima Intermediate
kaimiloa Elementary

Kaleiopuu Elementary
Kamaile Elementary

Kaneolani Elementary
Kapolei Elementary

Leihoku Elementary
Maile Elementary

Makaha Elementary

Makakilo Elementary
Maukalani Elementary

Nanakuli Elementary
Nanakuli High & Intermediate
Pohakea Elementary

Waianae Elementary
Waianae Intermediate

Waipahu Elementary
Waipahu High

Waipahu Intermediate

PEARL CITY - SALT LAKE and VICINITY

Aiea District Park
Aiea Elementary
Aiea Intermediate

Aiea High
Aliamanu Intermediate

Halawa District Park
Highlands Elementary

Lehua Elementary
Makalapa Elementary
Moanalua Elementary & Intermediate

Moanalua High
Palisades Elementary

Pearl City District Park
Pearl City High
Pearl City Highlands Intermediate

Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary

Pearlridge Elementary
Radford High
Red Hill Elementary

Salt Lake Elementary
Waiau Elementary

Waimalu Elementary

Webling Elementary

SALT LAKE - PUNCHBOWL and VICINITY

Dole Middle
Farrington High
Kaahumanu Elementary

Kaewai Elementary
Kaiulani Elementary

Kalakaua Middle
Kalihi-Kai Elementary

Kalihi-Uka Elementary
Kalihi Valley District Park

Kalihi-Waena Elementary

Kapalama Elementary
Kauluwela Elementary

Kawananakoa Middle
Lanakila District Park

Lanakila Elementary
Likelike Elementary

Linapuni Elementary
Maemae Elementary
Makiki District Park

Neal Blaisdell Center
Nuuanu Elementary

Pauoa Elementary
Puuhale Elementary

Roosevelt High
Royal Elementary

Stevenson Middle

PUNCHBOWL - WAIALAE and VICINITY

Aliiolani Elementary

Anuenue Complex
Hokulani Elementary

Jefferson Elementary
Kaahumanu Elementary

Kaimuki High
Kaimuki Middle

Kuhio Elementary
Liholiho Elementary

Liliuokalani Elementary

Lunalilo Elementary
Manoa Elementary

McKinley High
Neal Blaisdell Center

Noelani Elementary
Palolo Elementary

Roosevelt High
Stevenson Middle

Waialae Elementary

Waikiki Elementary
Washington Middle

Wilson Elementary

AINA HAINA - HAWAII KAI and VICINITY

Hahaione Elementary

Kaiser High
Kalani High

Kamiloiki Elementary

Koko Head Elemtary
Niu Valley Middle

WINDWARD COAST (KAHUKU - MAKAPUU PT.)

Ahuimanu Elementary
Castle High
Enchanted Lake Elementary

Heeia Elementary
Kahaluu Elementary
Kahuku High and Intermediate

Kailua Elementary
Kailua High
Kailua Intermediate
Kainalu Elementary

Kalaheo High
Kaneohe Elementary

Kapunahala Elementary

King Intermediate
Lanikai Elementary

Maunawili Elementary

Parker Elementary
Pope Elementary

Puohala Elementary

Waiahole Elementary
Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate

1
Emergency Preparedness Information
Emergency Alert System

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is your official source of emergency information and instructions. This information originates from the Civil Defense Emergency Operating Centers.

If the Civil Defense sirens sound, turn on your radio. All radio stations have voluntarily agreed to participate in the EAS. In the event of a power outage, some stations are equipped with back-up generator power and will continue to stay on the air. Stay tuned to these stations for further information and instructions. Take the necessary protective actions as directed and keep tuned to your radio for further updates.

During an emergency, a battery-powered radio will be your primary source of information. Be sure you have enough batteries to operate your radio for at least 24 hours. Civil Defense information will also be available on television and cable TV systems.

During a major power outage, the electric utility company will provide power restoration updates to the EAS.

Important Telephone Numbers for OAHU

Emergency Police, Fire, Ambulance

911

Oahu Civil Defense
523-4121

State Civil Defense
733-4300

HECO Service Center/Dispatch Office
(to report power outages, downed power lines, trees on power lines) Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
548-7961

HECO Education & Consumer Affairs Division Hours: Mon - Fri; 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
543-7511

HECO Customer Installations Department, Technical Division
(to request marking of underground electrical lines in and around your property, prior to excavation work)
Reg. Hours: Mon - Fri; 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
543-5654

Board of Water Supply Troubleline
Reg. Hours: Mon - Fri; 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. After Hours, weekends, holidays
748-5010 748-5000

Verizon Hawaii Telephone Repair Service
611

American Red Cross
734-2101

Streetlights Out City
State
564-6113 831-6714

The Gas Company Customer Relations
Hours: Mon - Fri; 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Emergency Service
24 Hours
535-5933
526-0066

2
Individual Preparation

In an emergency, you must be able to care for yourself and your family. There are certain things you can learn and do to help you cope with almost any type of disaster.

•Be prepared. Develop a family emergency plan (see page 3) now before disaster strikes. Be sure all family members know what to do. Decide where the family will meet if separated, where you will seek shelter, and what to take with you if you must evacuate.

•Keep calm. Take the actions you have planned. Listen to the radio for Civil Defense instructions and information.

•Know the warning signals and where shelters are located. Listen to the Emergency Alert System for shelters and opening times.

•Prepare a home survival kit. (See page 4.)

•Prepare an evacuation kit. (See page 6.)

•Prepare a first aid kit. (See page 6.)

The key to successfully weathering a hurricane or tropical storm is being prepared. Here is what you should do:

•Know the warning signals and where shelters are located.

•Always have a home survival kit ready, with the following basic items:

o Portable radio
o Extra batteries
o Flashlight
o Candles
o Manual can opener
o Matches or lighter
o First aid kit and special medications
o Five-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat food
o Ice chest and blue-ice packs
o Containers of water (minimum 2 quarts per person per day)
o Sleeping bags or blankets
o Change of clothing for each family member
o Camp stove, lantern, and fuel
o Masking tape for windows
o Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies, and diapers

•Tie down or store all loose objects.

•Store all propane tanks.
•Bring all potted plants into the house.

•Remove and store patio furniture.
•Throw deck furniture into the pool.
•Unplug electric appliances you may not need or use.

•Shutter/board all windows and glass doors.
•Wedge sliding doors at the top.
•Assemble insurance documents and place in waterproof containers.

•Secure elevators on the top floor of your condominium.
•Fill up the gas tank of your car.

3
YOUR FAMILY EMERGENCY PLAN

NOTE. Most shelters in Hawaii are not equipped to provide meals, beds, or emergency care. You must bring food, clothing, bedding, and special items with you. Pets are not allowed in shelters

.
•See the Emergency Information section in the white pages of telephone directories for information and instructions.
•Meet with family members to discuss what to do in an emergency.

•Plan how your family will stay in contact if separated by disaster.

•Pick two meeting places:

o a location a safe distance from your home in case of fire;
o a place outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home.
o Choose an off –island or out –of –state friend or relative as a "check –in contact" for everyone to call.

•Post emergency telephone numbers by every phone.
•Show responsible family members how and when to shut off water, gas and electricity at main switches.

•Install a smoke detector on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Test monthly and change batteries at least twice a year.
•Learn first aid and CPR. Contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross for information and training.
•Meet with neighbors to plan how the neighborhood could work together after a disaster. Practice and maintain your family emergency plan.

Pet Care

If you must leave your home because it is considered unsafe for you, it is unsafe for your pet as well. If you could not arrange sheltering for your pet, as a last resort, your pet can stay in your car parked at an evacuation shelter. Keep the pet in its carrier, and provide food and water. Remember to leave a window slightly open to allow proper ventilation.

Q: If I have to go to a shelter, what do I do with my pet(s)?
A: Pets are not allowed inside the emergency shelters, so plan ahead for their safety and protection. See the instructions suggested by the Oahu Civil Defense Agency and the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Q: How do I provide oxygen for my fish tank?
A: Consult with your pet shop or veterinarian for specific information, but generally, fish can survive without the pump's aeration system for pproximately 2 to 24 hours, depending on the type of fish and the number of fish in the tank. Battery-operated pumps are also available at pet supply stores.

If you are at home, take water from the tank, using a cup, then pour it back into the tank to provide oxygen bubbles for the fish.

If you have a salt-water fish tank, it probably has a different aeration system than a fresh-water tank. Greater care is needed, so a recommendation is to have a back-up generator for these tanks.

4

Home Survival Kit Checklist

A home survival kit and emergency food and water supply are essential during disasters or extended power outages that leave you confined to your home.

•Portable, battery-powered radio

•Flashlights
•Extra batteries
•Manual can opener and bottle opener

•First aid kit and special medications
•Three to five-day supply of non-perishable foods, needing little or no cooking; high nutrition. Be sure you pack any special dietary foods, baby food, and formula, if needed.
•Water: Minimum two quarts per person per day, but preferably, one gallon per person per day, for drinking, cooking, washing, and sanitation. Store as much clean water as possible in clean, non-breakable containers.
•Extra pet food
•Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies, and diapers

•Ice chest and ice or frozen ice packs
•Camp stove or canned heat stove, and enough fuel for three to five days; or hibachi (portable grill) and charcoal
•Masking tape for windows and glass doors

•Candles
•Matches in a water-proof container or a lighter

FOOD SAFETY

How long food remains frozen in the freezer depends on the amount, type, temperature, and freezer insulation. Keep freezer door closed for as long as possible to prevent loss of cold air. Large cuts of meat or poultry will stay frozen longer than baked goods or small items. In fully loaded separate freezers, food may remain frozen for 48 to 72 hours. Food thaws quicker in a refrigerator/freezer, but should remain frozen about 12 hours or longer in a side –by –side unit or up to 24 hours in a top or bottom –mount freezer.

Use refrigerated foods as soon as possible. It is difficult to make general recommendations about food safety as this depends on the type of food, its preparation and handling.

•Butter, margarine, and hard cheese are safe unless mold or rancid odors develop.

•Fresh fruits and vegetables are safe as long as the are not mushy or slimy.
•Eggs will be safe for several days if shells have no cracks.
•Fresh meat, poultry, luncheon meats, or frankfurters should be discarded if allowed to warm to room
temperature for more than two hours.
•Milk and cream will probably be sour after eight hours without refrigeration.

Commercial (purchased) mayonnaise should be kept refrigerated once opened. Discard if left without refrigeration for more than two hours. Vinegar and oil salad dressings, jellies, jams, may be left unrefrigerated unless they have been contaminated by poultry or meat juices. Discard if moldy: mustard, catsup, and pickles.

Previously frozen foods: Meat, poultry, fish, fruits and vegetables can usually be safely refrozen if they still have ice crystals present or are very cold (40 degrees F or lower), but there will be some loss of quality. Refrozen foods should be used as soon as possible. When cooking, remember that refrozen foods have been thawed once. If thawing is necessary, do it in the refrigerator or microwave, not by thawing at room temperature. Discard any food that has an off color or odor, or food that has warmed to room temperature for an unknown length of time.

Generally, if in question about the food safety, discard it.

5
Five-day food supply for 2 Adults & 1 Infant

FOOD
AMOUNT
SHELF LIFE (in months)

non-fat dry milk
1 box (12 1 qt envls)
6

tuna
1 can (6 1/2 oz)
12

beef stew
1 can (1 lb 8 oz)
18

Milk, Canned Meat
Poultry, Fish
chili with beans
2 cans (15 1/2 oz)
18

red or pink salmon
1 can (7 3/4oz)
12

Vienna sausage
2 cans (5 oz)
18

canned luncheon meat
2 cans (12 oz)
18

corned beef hash
2 cans (15 oz)
18

corned beef
2 can (12 oz)
18

deviled ham
2 cans (4 1/2 oz)
18

pork & beans
2 cans (16 oz)
18

chunked chicken
1 can (12 1/2 oz)
18

assorted soups
4 cans (10 3/4 oz)
12

cream of mushroom soup
2 cans (10 3/4oz)
12

assorted fruits (peaches, pears, etc.)
9 cans (16 oz)
18

Canned Fruits, & Vegetables
assorted vegetables (peas, beans, etc.)
5 cans (16 oz)
18

assorted fruit juices (guava, etc.)
10 cans (12 oz)
12-18

seedless raisins
1 box (15 oz)
12

instant hot cereal
1 box (10 oz 8pk)
24

Cereals & Baked Goods
cold cereal (cornflakes, bran, etc.)
1 box (1 lb 4 oz)
12

soda crackers
2 pkgs (13 oz ea)
1-2

rice
2 lb
24

cookies
1 pkg
1-2

Miscellaneous
salad oil
1 pint
3

sugar, granulated
1 box (1 lb)
24+

hard candy, gum
as desired
18

jelly
1 jar (16 oz)
12

instant orange drink
1 jar (14 oz)
24

instant coffee
1 jar (4 oz)
18
non-dairy creamer
1 jar (6 oz)
18

salt & pepper
1 small shaker each
indefinitely

peanuts
1 jar
indefinitely

mustard
1 jar (6 oz)
indefinitely

catsup
1 bottle (14 oz)
indefinitely

lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
1 6-pack
12

peanut butter
1 jar (18 oz)
9

Baby Foods
formula, ready-to-feed
20 cans (8 oz)
12

formula, powdered
1 can (16 oz)
6

fruit juice
5 jars (4 oz)
-
baby cereal
1-2 boxes
12

plain fruit
15 jars
-
plain meat
10 jars
-

plain vegetables
10 jars
-

6
Pets as needed
Evacuation Kit Checklist

You should have an evacuation kit in case you have to leave your home.

•Portable, battery-powered radio

•Flashlights
•Extra batteries
•Manual can opener and bottle opener

•First aid kit and special medications
•Three to five-day supply of non-perishable foods, needing little or no cooking; high nutrition. Be sure
you pack any special dietary foods, baby food, and formula, if needed.
•Water: Minimum two quarts per person per day, for drinking. Store water in clean, non-breakable
containers.
•Pet food as necessary
•Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies, and diapers

•Sleeping bags or two blankets per person
•One complete change of clothing for each family member
•Important papers and documents (i.e., insurance and mortgage papers) in a waterproof bag

First Aid Kit Checklist

A first aid kit is important. Build or buy a first aid kit containing the items listed below. Check and replenish first aid supplies at least once a year. Medical assistance will be difficult to provide after a disaster strikes. Learn first aid and emergency medical care or keep reference material with your medical supplies. Adults and teenagers are encouraged to take first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) courses.

o Adhesive tape, roll 2" wide
o Applicators, sterile cotton-tipped
oAntiseptic solution*
oAntibiotics (prescribed) *
oAspirin (or aspirin-free tabs or caps) *
oBandage, sterile roll, 2" and 4" wide
oBandages, plastic strip, assorted sizes
oCough mixture *
oCurrent prescription medicines *
oDiarrhea medication *
oEar drops *
oMedicine cup
oMotion sickness tablets *
oNose drops*
oPetroleum jelly
oRubbing alcohol*
oRed Cross First Aid reference guide * *
oSmelling salts
oSafety pins, assorted sizes
o8 oz. table salt
oSanitary napkins
oScissors
oSoap
o4 oz. baking soda
o1 pkg. paper tissues
oToothache remedy *
oNose drops *
oPlastic garbage bags
o Tweezers
oWater purification materials *

7
Planning Ahead for Special Medical Needs

If you or someone in your care has a condition which requires continuous or special medication, or are on life support systems, or if your medications require refrigeration, contact your doctor on how to deal with emergencies and power outages.

The following are answers to frequently asked questions:

Q: When I don't have electric power, how do I care for my medications that require refrigeration?
A: Always consult your doctor or pharmacist. Generally, very few medications require refrigeration, but for those that do, such as pediatric antibiotics or some types of insulin, you can keep them in the refrigerator, if the door is kept shut, for up to six hours. After that, it would be best to store medications in an ice chest with ice packs or ice. Some pharmacies have contingency plans for power outages and will reissue medications as needed.

Q: What if the power goes out and I'm on a life support system?
A: Discuss this issue with your physician BEFOREHAND. Ideally, you should have a contingency plan set up with the equipment companies or home health agencies. The plan should include the availability of a back-up generator. If not, call for help by dialing 911, or call the fire department or your hospital. Hospitals, of course, have contingency plans for power outages.

Water Storage

Q: Do I need to store water in anticipation of an outage?
A: Yes, you should have enough water to last your family for at least five days. During a major power outage the Board of Water Supply may not have the power to pump water to your home.

Q: How much water should I store?
A: The minimum is two quarts per person per day, but preferably, one gallon per person per day, for drinking, cooking, washing, and sanitation. Be sure to include pets in your calculations.

Q: How do I store the water?
A: Buy commercially bottled water and replace each year, or store tap water using clean, non-corrosive, non-breakable, tightly covered containers such as gallon size beverage syrup bottles or soft drink bottles. If water is stored too long, or if you are unsure of the cleanliness of the water, purify the water using one of the following methods:

•Boil the water for five to ten minutes, OR
•Buy water purification tablets from a pharmacy and use as directed, OR
•Add 8 drops (approximately 1/8 teaspoon) of chlorine bleach (5.25% hypochlorite as its only active ingredient) to each gallon of water and let it sit for a half hour. If it gives off a slight chlorine smell and looks clear, it's ok to use.
o If you do not smell chlorine or if the water is cloudy, add another 8 drops of bleach to each gallon of water and let it stand another half hour.
o If you have added a total of 16 drops (approximately 1/4 teaspoon) of chlorine bleach and the water still does not smell like chlorine, do not use the water for drinking or cooking.

Q: How long can I store the water?
A: Containers should be refilled every six to twelve months. Wash the containers and refill with clean water. If you notice that the stored water is cloudy, or has an odor, discard it and refill containers as necessary.

When an emergency is imminent, fill the bathtub, the washing machine, and all other available containers with water for drinking, cooking, and sanitary needs.

Ice and Dry Ice

•It's a good idea to always have a few ice packs frozen to help keep perishable items cold during
those unexpected power outages.
•When you know a power outage may or will occur, freeze ice packs and large blocks of ice (in rinsed out milk cartons or similar containers) before the power goes out. During widespread or prolonged power outages, it may be difficult to find ice.
•Dry ice can also help keep perishable items cold during a power outage.
•Both ice and dry ice are commercially available. Look in the telephone directory yellow pages under "Ice" and "Dry Ice" for suppliers.

Generators

Some residents have small generators serving as a backup to their electric utility system. Normally, these generators are intended to supply power to only a few household appliances. Before using any generator, be sure to read the manufacturer's manual carefully and follow all instructions. Keep these safety tips in mind when operating these machines:

•Generators should be properly grounded in accordance with the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer.
•Ventilation of the generator's exhaust and cooling systems must be well designed tominimize the impact of noise, dangerous fumes, and overheating.
•Reserve fuel must be stored in a safe place away from the generator or any other equipment that may ignite the fuel. Use containers designed for fuel storage.
•To avoid possible damage to your appliances or generator, use only those appliances that do not exceed the generator's capacity.
•WARNING: Don't plug the generator's power into the household outlet because the power can backflow into the utility lines.

If you have questions regarding installation of small portable generators, contact your licensed electrician or the manufacturer of your generator.

Q: Where can I get generators?
A: For the dealer nearest you, look in the telephone directory yellow pages, under "Generators."

Q: How do I determine the size of a generator to purchase?
A: Consult your dealer. It would be helpful to the dealer if you know the wattage of each appliance you plan to power with the generator.

9
Protecting Your Appliances and Sensitive Equipment

from Power Disturbances

We live in an ever more electronic world. Electricity hasn't changed, just the way we use it. In the past, brief power fluctuations were hardly noticed. Today, things are different. We all use electronic equipment at home and at work that's sensitiveto even a split-second loss or change in electric power.

On any given day, momentary power interruptions and power fluctuations (power surges or power sags) may occur. These conditions can be caused by utility switching (when the electric utility attempts to isolate a problem in order to maintain power to an area), weather (lightning, wind), damage to the electric utility's equipment, or even the start up of major appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners.

10
Unanticipated Power Interruptions and Fluctuations

Q: What is a power interruption, a power surge, and a power sag?

A: Definitions are as follows:

•Power Interruption is a planned or accidental loss of power. An interruption could cause your appliances, lights, and electronic equipment to trip off and your PC hard drive to "crash."
•Spike/Surge/Transient (too much voltage) is a sudden upward change in voltage. Although such spikes and surges last only a few milliseconds or less, they can cause serious damage to computers, VCRs, and other sensitive electronic equipment.
•Sag (not enough voltage) is a drop in voltage usually lasting only a few seconds. Most equipment will not be damaged by a sag. However, motorized appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators may be affected.

You have a responsibility to protect your equipment from power interruptions and power fluctuations. The rules of Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric, and Hawaii Electric Light Companies' tariff, approved by the Public Utilities Commission, say that customers should equip their motors and electronic equipment with devices to protect them from power interruptions and power fluctuations.

Q: What can I do to protect my sensitive equipment from unexpected momentary power interruptions and power fluctuations?
A: Planning ahead is important to minimize or prevent problems associated with unexpected momentary power interruptions and power fluctuations. Here's what you can do:

Be a wise shopper. Buy equipment that is already protected from potential power problems. Some manufacturers provide back up power features in products. Check if the equipment you're buying includes a display carry-over feature or a battery back-up. This eliminates blinking digital displays on microwaves, VCRs, and radio alarm clocks.

Install plug-in surge suppressors. By redirecting energy associated with over-voltage, surge suppressors can provide limited protection against high voltage spikes. Surge suppressors can be purchased at most hardware and electronic supply stores. Buying a surge suppressor can be a little confusing. Prices and features vary. Avoid making a purchase decision based entirely on lowest cost. It's a good idea to ask the appliance or electronic equipment manufacturer or consult with your owner's manual for the type of suppressor they recommend.

Here are some things to look for when purchasing a surge suppressor (formally known as transient voltage surge suppressor or TVSS):

•Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 1449 seal, second edition, 1998 standard. This certification indicates that the product meets minimum safety and effectiveness standards.
•Low-clamping voltage. This is the voltage level at which the suppressor "kicks in" to minimize a power surge. Make sure the suppressor has a voltage rating of at least 400 volts or lower. In most cases, the lowest clamping voltage is the best.
•LED indicators. When this light is on, it means the surge protection feature is ready to block a voltage surge. The LED indicator is different from the on/off light.
•Special suppressors. For your TV and VCR, there are suppressors with TV cable/antenna connectors. For your phone answering machine, computer modem, and FAX machine, you can get a suppressor with telephone connectors.
•Warranties. Some surge suppressor warranties offer replacement of the suppressor only. Others pay for repair of equipment damaged as a result of a failed surge suppressor. These manufacturer warranties usually do not compensate you for the time and cost of replacing lost or scrambled computer data. Check the warranty carefully for limits and exclusions.

Consider buying an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). A UPS is an energy storage device that will use power from batteries when the power to your home or office goes out or is unstable. Generally, UPSs are used for computers which are sensitive and intolerant to power fluctuations. UPSs can provide protection against both over-voltage and under-voltage conditions and sometimes offer voltage regulation. Because of their price, careful consideration should be given before purchasing one. For suppliers of UPSs, look in the telephone directory yellow pages, under "Computers-Rooms Installations & Equipment" or "Computers-Dealers".

Put your sensitive electronic equipment on a separate circuit. Your computer and microwave should not be on the same circuit as your refrigerator or air conditioner.

11

Anticipated Power Interruptions & Power Fluctuations (due to storms, disasters, rolling blackouts)

During a storm or hurricane situation, especially when power outages have already occurred, turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment (i.e., computers, TVs, air conditioners, etc.) Most electronic equipment is partially on, even when turned off and should be unplugged to avoid possible damage. When the power comes back on and is steady (no fluctuations or momentary outages), gradually plug in appliances.

Telephones

Q: Will my telephone service be affected by a power outage?
A: Generally, your telephone service will not be affected by a power outage. However, cordless phones rely on electric power to operate their transmitters and to recharge their batteries.

Q: May I use the telephone during a power outage?
A: Make whatever phone calls you need to make, but limit those calls to less than a minute if possible. This is to avoid telephone gridlock and to keep lines open for emergency calls.

Remember: overloading the circuits reduces the efficiency of the entire phone system. During major disasters (hurricanes, tsunamis, etc.) you will be requested by the telephone company and the Civil Defense to limit your calls to emergencies only.

Water Use and Safety (During an extended power outage)

During a major power outage, the Board of Water Supply may not have the power needed to pump water to your home. Under these circumstances, special attention needs to be given to the use of water.

If you live in a high-rise, your building's pumps may be out of service (check with your building supervisor). Listen to the radio for Civil Defense reports that mention the need to limit water use in your area.

You may need to use the water stored for emergency use, taking precautions to sanitize water. You may be able to purchase commercially bottled water for cooking and drinking.

Q: Can I bathe in streams if I don't have any water?
A: No, the Department of Health recommends against it because of the danger of contracting diseases due to contaminated water.

Q: Can I flush my toilet?
A: Minimize the flushing of toilets. If the power is out, there's a good chance the sewer system is without its main power source.

TROPICAL STORM CHECKLISTS
BEFORE THE STORM

oPrepare a Home Survival Kit
oInclude basic First Aid supplies and prescriptions
oStock nonperishable food items for at least 5 days –include pets as well
oPrepare a Family Plan to include where to locate family members in case they become separated
oStore important papers and valuables in a waterproof packaging where they can be easily reached if you plan to
take these items with you.
oKeep the car gas tank at least 3/4 full.

oTie down or store all loose objects
oBring all potted plants into the house

oRemove and store lanai furniture
oUnplug electric appliances you may not need or use

oTape all windows and sliding glass doors
oStore all propane tanks
oAssemble insurance documents and place in waterproof containers

oFreeze some blue-ice packs
oKeep refrigerator door closed as long as possible –food may stay frozen for up to 12-48 hours

DURING THE STORM
DON’T:

oUSE THE TELEPHONE. Leave lines open for emergency calls only. Overloading circuits slows down the entire phone system.
oUSE ELEVATORS. Power outages shut down elevator systems, often trapping occupants. Use stairways instead.

oGO SIGHTSEEING. Cooperate with local officials and for your own safety never enter high risk areas.

DO:

oSTAY TUNED TO LOCAL RADIO (KSSK 92.3FM or 590AM) for official weather and Civil Defense announcements.

oSECURE YOUR HOME. Lock doors and windows. Know where to locate electrical, water and gas service sources if advised to turn off utilities. Secure or store objects that may cause damage or injury.

HOME SURVIVAL KIT

oPortable Radio with extra batteries
oMedications
oSleeping bags or blankets
oFirst Aid Kit
oFuel for stoves, lanterns
oIce Chest
oFlashlight with extra batteries
o5-day non-perishable food supply
oMasking/Duct tape for windows
oPersonal toilet articles & sanitary needs
oCandles
oContainers of water (minimum 2qts per person per day)
oMatches
oOne gallon vacuum-type water jug
oToilet Kit (soap & hand towels; toilet tissue)
oClothing: 2 pairs sock; 1 underwear; water proof jacket
oUtility knife, with spoon, fork;
oCurrency
oMisc: Sewing kit, extra glasses
oShot records

EVACUATION KIT

oPortable Radio with extra batteries
oMedications
oSleeping bags or blankets
oFirst Aid Kit
oChange of clothing
oManual can opener
oFlashlight with extra batteries
o5-day non-perishable food supply
oMasking/Duct tape for windows
oPersonal toilet articles & sanitary needs
oContainers of water (minimum 2qts per person per day)

LEAVING HOME

oLeave note for those absent. Give time, destination, phone #
oTake evacuation kit and small valuables
oWedge sliding doors at the top
oProvide for pets which are NOT allowed in the shelters.
oSecure residence. Lock windows and doors.
oShut of electricity and gas.

RETURNING HOME

Exercise Caution.

Gas leaks
Structural damage.
Broken water lines
Electrical short circuits
Contaminated food/water.

FIRST AID KIT

oAdhesivetape,rol2”wide
oMedicine glass
o4 oz Baking soda
oApplications, sterile cotton-tipped
oNose Drops
o1 pkg paper tissues
oAntiseptic solution
oPetroleum Jelly
oToothache remedy
oAspirin (or aspirin free tabs or caps)
oRubbing Alcohol

oThermometer
oBandage,sterile2:&4”wide
oSmelling salts
oTweezers
oBandages, plastic strip, assorted sizes

oSafety pins
oWater purification materials
oCough mixture
o8 oz table salt
oPlastic garbage bags
oDiarrhea medication
oSanitary napkins

oEye care materials
oEar drops
oScissors
oLaxative
oSoap

MEAL PREPARATION SUPPLIES

oDisposable plates, forks, spoons, knives
oDisposable hot & cold cups
oPaper napkins or towels
oNonelectric can opener
oTrash bags
oSterno heater, camp stove, BBQ
oCharcoal, Propane Gas
oMatches/Lighter
oHeavy duty aluminum foil